What was once reserved for school uniforms and 90s wardrobes, pleated skirts have made their way back into the style stratosphere as of late.
Whether it be a thigh-skimming mini, a Miu Miu-inspired office-siren midi or an elegant maxi skirt that finishes flatteringly at the ankles, the great thing about a pleated skirt is its immense versatility.
Pleated skirts come in an array of silhouettes, styles, colourways and materials – each unique and different from the other which means you can always count on them to find something that suits your taste.
Taylor Swift has been spotted donning the style multiple times, leaning towards mini-length skirts that perfectly encapsulate the preppy sense of style she exudes. Whilst Zendaya took to the press tour of her latest film Challengers wearing some sporty yet glam options that are certain to be Wimbeleon-approved.
With pleated skirts gaining fashion approval across the board and becoming a street style regular at fashion weeks, now is the perfect time to try out this trend, especially as we transition into the cooler seasons of autumn and winter.
Styling a pleated skirt doesn’t require going full Blair Waldorf (although we do love a bit of GG-inspired dressing). They can be layered over pants, paired with oversized jumpers and jackets, or styled with chunky biker boots for a grungier look. Alternatively, a tailored top like a corset or structured knit can add refinement to the piece.
Discover our top picks that cater to a range of budgets and styles, ideal additions to your wardrobe as winter approaches.
2024’s Top 3 Pleated Skirts
- Dazie Luna Pleated Tailored Mini Skirt, $59.99 at The Iconic
- Topshop Denim Knee Length Pleat Skirt, $60.60 (usually $101) at ASOS
- Mura Pleated Mini Skirt, $99 at Meshki
The best pleated skirts to buy in 2024
Dazie Luna Pleated Tailored Mini Skirt
$59.99 at The Iconic
Best for: a classic black everyday mini
If you’re in the market for a classic mini, you can’t go wrong with this option from Dazie. Its lightweight material makes it versatile for all seasons, easily layered for extra style and added warmth. You’ll find yourself reaching for this mini time and time again.
Sizes: 6 to 20 | Colours: Black and Stone | Materials: 95 per cent polyester and 5 per cent elastane
Style notes:
- High-rise waistband
- Thick pleats
- Mini length
Topshop Denim Knee Length Pleat Skirt
$60.60 (usually $101) at ASOS
Best for: something grungy
Choosing different materials like denim can add dimension and texture to your outfit. The knee-length silhouette adds edge to an otherwise classic style. If you were a fan of jorts in summer, then this pleated skirt is the perfect winter substitute.
Sizes: 4 to 18 | Colours: Washed Black | Materials: 100 per cent cotton
Style notes:
- High-rise
- Zip-side fastening
- Belt loops
- Knee length design
Mura Pleated Mini Skirt
$99 at Meshki
Best for: something elegant yet youthful
Pleated skirts are often associated with preppy or edgy styles, but this mini from Meshki is a versatile piece that can be styled casually or elevated for nights out. In a creamy hue it adds some much-needed lightness to your wardrobe and we love how it can be styled with a fitted blazer or matching vest for something more refined.
Sizes: 4 to 18 | Colours: Ivory, Black, Plum, Lemon and Peach | Materials: 96 per cent polyester, 4 per cent elastane
Style notes:
- Low to mid-rise fit
- Box pleating
- Side zipper
- Belt loops
- Skater skirt silhouette
BY.DYLN Holly Skirt
$89 at The Iconic
Best for: the perfect party mini
In a trendy khaki color, we’re loving this thigh-skimming mini for parties and nights out. It feels pulled together and tailored, yet still has something sultry and flirty about it. The low-rise fit elongates the torso flatteringly. Paired with the matching corset, this is a head-turning ensemble.
Sizes: 6 to 12 | Colours: Khaki and Black | Materials: 80 per cent polyester, 20 per cent rayon
Style notes:
- Thick waistband
- Mid-waist
- Belt loops
Pleated Skirt
$59.99 at H&M
Best for: the office
With its smaller pleats, lightweight fabric, and maxi length, this skirt is a great option when you’re after something a bit less boring than the classic pencil skirt for the office. The navy tone is versatile and can be styled with an oversized knit and low heels for an elegant yet stylish corporate look.
Sizes: 4 to 24 | Colours: Dark Blue | Materials: 100 per cent polyester
Style notes:
- High waisted
- Elasticated waistband
- Slight sheen to material
- Lightweight material
No Angel Denim Mini Skirt
$34.98 (usually $69.95) at Peppermayo
Best for: a Y2K look
A skirt worthy of the likes of Paris, Nicole, or Lilo in the 2000s, this pleated denim mini with a thick statement belt is the stuff Y2K dreams are made of.
Sizes: 4 to 22 | Colours: Dark Blue Wash | Materials: 95 per cent polyester, 5 per cent spandex
Style notes:
- Low-waisted
- Removable thick denim belt
- A-line silhouette
- Silver details on belt buckle
ASOS Design Pleated Mini Skirt
$63 at ASOS
Best for: a preppy look
If you take your style cues from Cher Horowitz and Blair Waldorf, then this check mini is the skirt for you. Like a uniform, only cuter, the check design is timeless and perfect for lovers of the dark academia aesthetic. Pair it with the matching blazer for the full look.
Sizes: 4 to 18 | Colours: Brown Check | Materials: 72 per cent polyester, 28 per cent viscose
Style notes:
- Belted waist
- High rise
- A-line silhouette
Lioness Fame Midi Skirt
$89 at Universal
Best for: a skirt with some edge
If you like your outfits a bit more edgy, then we love this long pleated maxi with silver detailing. A great length for winter, you can layer this skirt over tights and thick socks to keep warm. We also love how it has been styled with chunky loafers and white contrasting socks.
Sizes: 4 to 18 | Colours: Onyx and Porcelain | Materials: 80 per cent polyester, 20 per cent viscose
Style notes:
- Thick waistband
- Long, maxi-length silhouette
- Silver buckles on side
Leather Effect Pleated Mini-Skirt
$89 at MNG
Best for: a leather mini
A leather skirt is a great way to mix up your wardrobe while still sticking to that classic pleated style. In a deep wine tone and patent leather finish, this mini from MNG is high on our winter wishlist.
Sizes: 6 to 16 | Colours: Wine | Materials: 100 per cent polyester
Style notes:
- Invisible zip fastening
- Faux leather
- Mini length
Ultra Soft Pleat Skirt
$44.99 at MNG
Best for: something sporty
Embracing the tennis-core aesthetic after catching Challengers at the movies? Yeah, us too. That’s why we have this sporty and comfortable pleated sports skirt high on our list to add something fun to our boring activewear collection.
Sizes: 6 to 24 | Colours: Black, Petal Pink, Cherry Dream, Myrtle Dream, Forever Blue, Quiet Sky and White | Materials: 89 per cent polyester, 11 per cent elastane
Style notes:
- Stretch weave
- Attached bike shorts for coverage
- Side pocket for phone in shorts
- Moisture wicking
Brigitte Pleated Mini
$109 at Meshki
Best for: something with colour
Add some colour to your seasonal wardrobe with this bright khaki-toned mini skirt from Meshki. It has a utilitarian feel to the silhouette thanks to the cargo-style pocket but still feels feminine and flirty.
Sizes: 4 to 18 | Colours: Khaki | Materials: 96 per cent recycled polyester, 4 per cent elastane
Style notes:
- High waisted
- Lightweight material
- Unlined
- Thick box pleats
Related articles:
Transition Into Autumn With Some Edge With The Hottest Skirt of The Season
7 Designer Dupes We’re Coveting Right Now
The Secret To Wearing Sheer This Autumn
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